Chislehurst Caves

Originally carved over centuries to extract chalk and flint for building materials and tools, the caves have a rich and varied past. Opened to the public in 1900, they captivated Victorian visitors with stories of Romans, Druids, smugglers, and murder.

Throughout the 20th century, the caves served many roles—from munitions storage during WWI to mushroom farming, and later as a vast underground air-raid shelter protecting over 15,000 people each night during the Blitz. In the 1950s to 70s, they became a lively venue for dances and concerts, hosting early performances in jazz, skiffle, and rock music.

Today, the caves are a popular tourist attraction and educational centre, complete with a café, gift shop, and facilities for group visits, private events, and children’s parties.

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